Welcome to an insightful episode of Under the Dome by Empower Missouri, where we delve into the latest from Jefferson City's legislative sessions, particularly focusing on anti-poverty advocacy. Our team, with over a century of dedication, continues to champion evidence-based policies that combat poverty through affordable housing, criminal justice reforms, and food security, aside from supporting healthcare, wages, and more.

Join us as Advocacy Director Sarah Owsley and Executive Director Mallory Rush discuss the whirlwind of Missouri's legislative happenings. We cover the busy yet narrowed scope of late-session bills, the intriguing debates like the unexpected float trip discussions, and the uncertainties surrounding Missouri's state budget deadlines.

On a serious note, we explore the advances and setbacks in housing policy and the controversial propositions affecting low-income communities. Plus, hear about the contentious Second Amendment Preservation Act and its legislative ramifications amid federal disputes. With insightful commentary, we also touch on Missouri's evolving tax laws impacting seniors and those with disabilities alongside capital gains tax cuts.

Tune in for an honest review of legislative dynamics, policymaking challenges, and our collective effort to foster impactful changes in Missouri's socio-economic landscape.

Welcome to another episode of "Under the Dome," hosted by Sarah Owsley, Advocacy Director at Empower Missouri. In today's update, Sarah, alongside Misha Smith, Christine Woody, and Lucas Caldwell-McMillan, provides insights into Missouri's legislative activities, particularly focusing on anti-poverty initiatives. The team discusses recent developments such as the progress and challenges of House Bill 595, analyzing its implications for Kansas City and veteran benefits. They also cover the defeat of House Bill 862, which could have increased state expenditures without effectively impacting crime rates.

Welcome to another episode of Under the Dome, where Empower Missouri brings you the latest updates from Jefferson City. Our focus remains steadfast on advancing evidence-based public policy to combat poverty, drawing insights from over a century of advocacy. Join Sarah Owsley, Advocacy Director, and her expert panel, including Misha Smith, Lucas Caldwell-McMillan, and Mallory Rush, as they dissect current legislative issues marked by fervent discussions on tenant rights, potential threats to the Head Start program, and the controversial measures targeting paid sick leave.

And Easter Candy.

Welcome to the latest episode of Under the Dome by Empower Missouri, where we dive into the critical issue of tenant organizing and its impact on affordable housing. Join Lucas Caldwell-McMillan, Chief of Policy Staff, and Vee Sanchez, Affordable Housing Policy Manager as they lead a discussion with some of our tenants leaders. Listen in as they share valuable experiences, transformative stories, and the challenges faced in advocating for tenants' rights in Missouri. This episode promises an engaging narrative on how tenant activism is shaping better housing policies and fighting poverty on local and state levels.

Welcome to the latest episode of "Under the Dome," where we update you on the pivotal happenings in Jefferson City, with a spotlight on efforts to combat poverty. In this episode, we celebrate the perfection of House Bill 953, the "Clean Slate" bill, marking a significant step towards better criminal justice policies. While it awaits further proceedings in the Senate, our optimism and resolve remain strong. We discuss the progress of House Bill 828, which aligns with Senate Bill 67, aiming to amend the Donated Food Pantry Tax Credit Law. Also on the agenda is House Bill 1222, which faces challenges due to potential SNAP purchase restrictions. Finally, we delve into the promising prospects of the Rural Workforce Housing Investment Fund (HB 245), designed to invigorate housing developments in rural areas. Join us as we navigate the complexities, celebrate the wins, and press on with determination.

Welcome to "Under the Dome," Empower Missouri's podcast that keeps you updated on significant happenings in Jefferson City with a focus on advancing policies to end poverty. In this special episode, Advocacy Director Sarah Owsley is joined by Rika White, Kim Neu, and Patrick Benson for a special discussion on Clean Slate legislation, a key policy priority aimed at automating expungement processes for individuals with criminal records in Missouri.

Hear compelling stories and expert insights as Patrick shares personal experiences with the burdens of a criminal record and Kim elucidates the complexities of current expungement laws. Discover the economic and social benefits of passing Clean Slate legislation and learn how it can transform lives and strengthen the workforce across the state.

Join the conversation about Missouri's path to Clean Slate, the challenges faced, and the progress being made. Find out how you can get involved and advocate for change that provides second chances and growth opportunities for many Missourians.

Welcome to "Under the Dome," an insightful update from Empower Missouri, where we explore the happenings in Jefferson City focusing on our anti-poverty mission. With over a century of experience, we advance evidence-based policies tackling affordable housing, criminal legal system reform, and food security, while supporting partners in addressing wages, healthcare, childcare, and voting rights. In this episode, Advocacy Director Sarah Owsley, alongside Criminal Justice Policy Managers Rika White and Gwen Smith-Moore, and Chief of Policy Staff Lucas Caldwell-McMillan, discuss the latest legislative developments, personal anecdotes, and impactful policies designed to alleviate poverty in Missouri.

Welcome to the latest episode of Under the Dome, your source for updates from Empower Missouri on the ongoing legislative developments in Jefferson City. Advocacy Director Sarah Owsley is joined by Criminal Justice Policy Managers Rika White and Gwen Smith-Moore to discuss their recent testimonies in both the Senate and House.

The discussions highlight the need for external accountability in Missouri's Department of Corrections and introduce Senate Bill 378, aiming to establish an Office of State Ombudsman. The episode also delves into House Bill 989, the Missouri Survivors Justice Act, addressing the sentencing concerns for domestic abuse victims. Explore how these legislative efforts resonate with Empower Missouri’s enduring commitment to evidence-based public policy.

In addition, learn about the Missouri Violent Crime Clearance Grant Program and the ongoing debates around affordable housing, with a spotlight on House Bill 595’s implications. This episode is a call to action for those passionate about social justice and offers avenues for citizens to participate actively in shaping Missouri’s future. Don't miss the updates on key bills and upcoming lobby days focused on correctional oversight and survivors’ rights.